MSc Computer Science for Games Programming at University of Hull - UCAS

University of Hull

Degree level: Postgraduate

MSc Computer Science for Games Programming (Taught)

Course options

Course summary

Games development is the largest and fastest growing entertainment industry in the world. Our MSc gives you the highly specialised set of skills needed to stay and the forefront of this demanding and constantly evolving field. The Computer Science department at the University of Hull has provided graduate programmers to the games industry both in the UK and throughout the world for over 20 years, and as such we have developed a rich network of industry contacts, both graduate employers and alumni, who help us to ensure our course remains one of the best games programming courses in the UK. Created with involvement from industry professionals, the course programme focuses on the technical aspects of game development and the underlying fundamentals of computer science. We cover a range of core concepts, including C++ programming, physics simulation, concurrency, advanced graphics, artificial intelligence, and game engine architecture. You will have use of our dedicated games development lab, equipped with the latest console development kits and top-spec PCs. You will also have access to HIVE — our multi-million pound virtual environment lab, which provides access to emerging and new technologies for computer interaction, data collection and visualisation. The course begins in September each year and lasts twelve months. There are two trimesters of taught modules, followed by an individual dissertation project during the third trimester. Studying Computer Science at Hull, you'll benefit from an excellent experience for students, with a supportive student community. We have an international reputation for our research activities, with a strong record of industrial and public grant funding. We are also affiliated with Microsoft’s DreamSpark programme, which allows you to access the latest Microsoft operating systems and development software for home use. Once registered with the University, you can download the software free of charge.

Modules

All modules are subject to availability and this list may change at any time. Computer Science Dissertation Compulsory modules: C++ Programming and Design Real-Time Graphics Simulation and Artificial Intelligence Games Architecture and Concurrency Advanced Rendering and Virtual Environments Development Project The modules in the first trimester are designed to allow a smooth transition to postgraduate study, regardless of your background. As a route into research, the programme supports the development of postgraduate technical skills, alongside critical research, analysis and planning activities. In lectures you’ll benefit from a range of techniques, from interpreting complex ideas through interactive discussions, to live programming or other problem-solving demonstrations. Our degrees are accredited by the British Computer Society, The Chartered Institute for IT. The BSc and MSc programmes fully meet the academic requirements for Chartered IT Professional and partial Chartered Engineer status, while our MEng programmes fully meet the academic requirements for both Chartered IT Professional and Chartered Engineer status. Some employers recruit preferentially from accredited degrees, and an accredited degree is likely to be recognised by other countries that are signatories to international accords. Teaching and learning We place a strong emphasis on practical laboratory sessions. These will significantly develop your core computer science skills, and enhance your employability through exposure to commercial projects. As teamwork plays a key role in commercial software development and has great value as an employable skill, group work is used in a number of modules.

Assessment method

This MSC is designed to support students with various levels of computing and programming practice experience. However, it is particularly suited to those with significant experience of writing code. The modules in the first trimester are designed to allow a smooth transition to postgraduate study, regardless of your background. As a route into research, the programme supports the development of postgraduate technical skills, alongside critical research, analysis and planning activities. In lectures you’ll benefit from a range of techniques, from interpreting complex ideas through interactive discussions, to live programming or other problem-solving demonstrations. Our degrees are accredited by the British Computer Society, The Chartered Institute for IT. The BSc and MSc programmes fully meet the academic requirements for Chartered IT Professional and partial Chartered Engineer status, while our MEng programmes fully meet the academic requirements for both Chartered IT Professional and Chartered Engineer status. Some employers recruit preferentially from accredited degrees, and an accredited degree is likely to be recognised by other countries that are signatories to international accords.This MSC is designed to support students with various levels of computing and programming practice experience. However, it is particularly suited to those with significant experience of writing code. The modules in the first trimester are designed to allow a smooth transition to postgraduate study, regardless of your background. As a route into research, the programme supports the development of postgraduate technical skills, alongside critical research, analysis and planning activities. In lectures you’ll benefit from a range of techniques, from interpreting complex ideas through interactive discussions, to live programming or other problem-solving demonstrations. Our degrees are accredited by the British Computer Society, The Chartered Institute for IT. The BSc and MSc programmes fully meet the academic requirements for Chartered IT Professional and partial Chartered Engineer status, while our MEng programmes fully meet the academic requirements for both Chartered IT Professional and Chartered Engineer status. Some employers recruit preferentially from accredited degrees, and an accredited degree is likely to be recognised by other countries that are signatories to international accords. Teaching and learning - We place a strong emphasis on practical laboratory sessions. These will significantly develop your core computer science skills, and enhance your employability through exposure to commercial projects. As teamwork plays a key role in commercial software development and has great value as an employable skill, group work is used in a number of modules. Assessment - Practical coursework is the main form of assessment, and you will design, build and test software solutions to a variety of problems. This is complemented by written coursework. The largest assessment is the dissertation.

Professional bodies

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

  • British Computer Society
  • BCS - The Chartered Institute for IT

How to apply

International applicants

If you require a Student visa to study or if your first language is not English you will be required to provide acceptable evidence of your English language proficiency level. This course requires academic IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each skill. See other accepted English language proficiency qualifications. If your English currently does not reach the required standard, you may be interested in our pre-sessional English Language programmes. Visit your country page to find out more about entry requirements.

Entry requirements

A minimum 2:2 Bachelor Honours (or international equivalent) in “Computer Science” or “Software Engineering” with at least 40 credits (or equivalent) of a high-level objected oriented programming language such as Java, C++ or C#. You will be required to submit a personal statement as a part of your application which sets out the extent of your programming experience, stating languages used and levels of proficiency in each. If you would like to discuss this with a member of academic staff who can help you to assess whether their degree will be sufficient preparation then we will be happy to arrange this. You can email the Postgraduate Admissions Team at [email protected]. In order to ensure our students have a rich learning and student experience, most of our programmes have a mix of domestic and international students. We reserve the right to close applications early to either group, if application volumes suggest that this blend cannot be achieved. In addition, existing undergraduate students at the University of Hull have a guaranteed ‘Fast Track’ route to any postgraduate programme, subject to meeting the entry criteria.


English language requirements

If you require a Tier 4 student visa to study or if your first language is not English you will be required to provide acceptable evidence of your English language proficiency level. This course requires academic IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each skill.

English Language Requirements

https://www.hull.ac.uk/choose-hull/study-at-hull/admissions/english-language-requirements


Fees and funding

Tuition fees

England £13000 Whole course
Northern Ireland £13000 Whole course
Scotland £13000 Whole course
Wales £13000 Whole course
Channel Islands £13000 Whole course
Republic of Ireland £13000 Whole course
EU £14000 Whole course
International £14000 Whole course

Additional fee information

Fees are subject to change
MSc Computer Science for Games Programming at University of Hull - UCAS